Drug Description:
Pradaxa (dabigatran etexilatemesylate) is a prescription medication that is used to reduce the chance of blood clots by acting as a blood thinner. It is also used to reduce the risk of recurring deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.
What is Pradaxa and how exactly does it work? This is an anticoagulant that acts as direct thrombin inhibitors. Thrombin is a clotting protein that is responsible in the conversion of fibrinogen into fibrin during the coagulation pathway. This will inhibit the development of thrombus. As a result, Pradaxa will allow your blood to flow smoothly in your body.
Directions
It is important to read the medication guide before you start taking it. Pradaxa dosing could be in a 75mg and 150mg capsule. Take it exactly as prescribed by the physician. It is usually taken twice a day, preferably every 12 hours.
You can take it with or without food and with one full glass of water (not less than 8oz. or 240mL). Avoid crushing or chewing Pradaxa as it may release the medication at once, thus, increasing the side effects.
Do not take antacids 24 hours post-surgery as this may lessen the effectiveness of Pradaxa. If you experience an upset stomach, take it with food.
In case of missing a dose, take it as soon as you can. If the next dose is due in 6 hours, disregard the missed dose. Never take two doses of Pradaxa simultaneously.
When storing Pradaxa, keep it in the original bottle or in the blister package. Do not transfer it to a medication box. This would protect the medication from moisture. Also, note that an opened bottle of Pradaxa should be used for only four months.
Side effects
Common side effects of Pradaxa are:
-easy bruising
-minor bleeding
-heartburn
-nausea
-indigestion or stomach pain
One of the severe adverse reactions of Pradaxa is serious bleeding. Signs of serious bleeding are unusual pain or swelling, prolonged and persistent bleeding, dark urine, coughing out blood, black-tarry stool, severe headache, and fainting. Call your doctor right away if you suspect serious bleeding.
Precautions
Do not take this medication if you have known allergy to dabigatran etexilatemesylate or any ingredients this medication may have.
Tell your doctor about your medical conditions, current and previous. Your healthcare provider may have to assess you further if you have a mechanical heart valve, any kidney disease, blood disorders, liver disease, history of injury or surgery, or any bleeding disorders.
Before having a surgery or any dental procedure, tell your doctor or dentist that you are taking Pradaxa. Your doctor may advise you to stop this medication before undergoing any medical procedure that could result in bleeding.
Do not discontinue this medication without your doctor’s advice. Stopping abruptly or missing a dose may increase the risk of blood clots and stroke.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Pradaxa blood thinner or antithrombotic?
It is a blood thinning drug, also called an anticoagulant.
Is Pradaxa safe to take?
Yes, Pradaxa is safe and effective as long as you take it with caution as this is considered a high-alert medicine.
What could be a Pradaxa reversal agent?
An idarucizumab injection called Praxbind is a reversal treatment for people taking Pradaxa. This will allow your blood to clot normally again.
Should I avoid certain types of food while taking Pradaxa?
You are not required to avoid certain foods while taking this medication although it will be ideal to eat green-leafy vegetables during the course of treatment.
How much does Pradaxa cost?
Our prices are listed at the top of this page. You may email or call-us for more inquiries about the pricing of Pradaxa.
